The Coeur d’Alene area is a fantastic place to see wildlife. The eagle viewing around the lake is probably the best-known attraction and getting a CDA boat rental is a great way to view these majestic birds, but there are more than just eagles to see. (We posted about the eagles here.) Allow us to highlight two wildlife refuges where you can see other beautiful and amazing animals.
Thompson Lake Wildlife Refuge
This refuge is located at the northeastern border of Harrison Idaho, so it’s not far if you’re visiting the Coeur d’Alene area. It’s over 1,000 acres where you can take a camera and hopefully get pictures of not just eagles, but osprey, white swans, and other wildlife. Best of all, it’s open year round and is free of charge. So, pack a lunch and go explore!
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge is 2,774 acres next to the Selkirk Mountains and is the perfect habitat for moose, elk, deer, bear, otter, and more. Or, if it’s bird’s you’re wanting to see, there are over 200 species of birds who visit the refuge during the year, including mallards, northern pintail, teal, and of course, eagles.
Plus, the area itself is gorgeous with ponds, creeks, meadows and the lush forests that Idaho is known for!
To see all of this, there’s a 4.5 mile road you can drive or you can pick from the four hiking trails in the refuge.
Find out more details about the trails, what animals are around during what time of year and more, by visiting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife page.